How to Host a Killer Summer Murder Mystery Party

Looking for a unique way to celebrate the sunnier weather? Whether planning a backyard bash, a lakeside gathering, or just wanting to bring your friends together for something different, a summer murder mystery party is the ultimate warm-weather event. With a self-hosted murder mystery party kit, planning a party to bring together friends, family, and neighbors is easy. 

Here’s your step-by-step guide to hosting a summer murder mystery party that’s hot in all the right ways.

Murder mystery parties aren’t just for Halloween — they make the perfect summer gathering for family and friends of all ages.

1. Choose Your Game

Start by picking the perfect story for your group. At Foulplay, we have a few summer-time themes to choose from:

• 🎤 Die 4 U – Travel back to the 90s music scene with this band drama set at the BEAT Awards afterparty. Perfect for pop lovers and boy band superfans for 6-10 players.

• 🚀 WANDERSTAR – Head to the final frontier in this space western mystery full of intergalactic outlaws, bounty hunters, and backstabbing for 7-15 players.

• 🪵 Cabin 5 – Embrace classic summer camp vibes in this eerie lakeside mystery that blends nostalgia, campfire tales, and chilling secrets for 6 players

All of our games are gender-neutral, come with detailed host guides, and are perfect for groups of friends looking to laugh, plot, and maybe even cry from laughter.

Costumes add extra fun — lean into retro summer styles or camp-inspired looks to bring your murder mystery to life.

2. Pick Your Venue

A great murder mystery needs a great setting. Summer opens up fun options:

• Backyard BBQ: Set up some string lights, lawn chairs, and a few props to turn your backyard into a crime scene.

• Park Picnic: Choose a quieter area at a local park with a picnic table or blanket setup.

• Indoors with AC: No shame in keeping it chill inside if the heat’s too much—just bring the summer vibes in with tropical drinks or 90s throwback décor.

Bonus points for dressing your space to match the theme—twinkle lights and holographic posters for Die 4 U, rustic signage and sleeping bags for Cabin 5, or dusty saloon vibes for Wanderstar.

3. Send the Invites

Once you’ve got your game and venue, send out invites that build excitement. Try free tools like Canva, Evite, or create a group text with a fun theme name. Be sure to tell your guests:

• The date, time, and location

• What game you’re playing

• How to dress (character-inspired outfits encouraged!)

• If they need to bring anything (costume props, snacks, etc.)

4. Assign Characters

When RSVPs are in, use your game’s host guide to assign characters. Each guest will get a unique backstory, secret objectives, and maybe even a motive for murder. You can assign the victim to someone who keeps playing after their “death,” and choose roles based on personality or experience level to help everyone shine.

Costumes add extra fun — lean into retro summer styles or camp-inspired looks to bring your murder mystery to life.

5. Prep the Game

A little planning goes a long way. Print your materials ahead of time and organize them by character. We recommend:

• Using clipboards or envelopes to keep character sheets tidy and to account for a summer breeze

• Having pens or costume props on hand for bonus fun

• Bringing a speaker and curated playlist (we’ve got themed ones ready for each game)

Take your murder mystery game outdoors with a summer camp–themed party — perfect for cozy nights by the fire.

6. Set the Summer Mood

Time to bring the theme to life! Here are a few ideas to level up your summer murder mystery:

• Snacks & Drinks: Serve on-theme snacks—90s candy and Capri Suns for Die 4 U, s’mores and hot dogs for Cabin 5, or alien “moon juice” cocktails for Wanderstar.

• Decor: Think pool floaties, glow sticks, or even simple handmade signs.

• Music: Playlists are your best friend. We’ve built some for you, or you can make your own to fit the vibe.

7. Enjoy the Drama

Once the party kicks off, let the mystery unfold! You’ll guide guests through accusations, revelations, and maybe even a surprise twist ending. Don’t worry—our host guides walk you through every step.

After the Party

We’d love to see how it went! Send photos or fun moments to foulplaycompany@gmail.com or tag us on Instagram @foulplaygames.

👉 Ready to plan your party?

Download Die 4 U, Wanderstar, or Cabin 5 and get your mystery on this summer!

Learn how to host a killer summer murder mystery party with tips for themes, costumes, and outdoor fun.